Councillor to tackle coast environmental issues
Sat 24 May 2008
Renee Anderson, Journalism
Division three councillor Keryn Jones is set to tackle environmental issues on the Sunshine Coast after receiving the portfolio as part of the new Sunshine Coast Regional Council.
The council introduced the portfolio system to address critical regional issues such as economic development, water reform and transport systems.
Councillors have been assigned roles reflecting their individual interests, allowing them to focus on community issues within their portfolio in preference to spending time in meetings.
Ms Jones said her understanding of environmental issues on the Sunshine Coast would facilitate better protection of local beaches and waterways.
“My decision to run for council was fuelled by my passion and commitment to ensure the Sunshine Coast retains the lifestyle, values and natural environment that are so important to the community,” she said.
Sunshine Coast Environment Council manager Ian Christesen said the most pressing issues within the new environmental portfolio were population growth and development.
“Unless issues such as population growth are addressed there will be a loss of the Sunshine Coast’s clean green image, environment and lifestyle,” he said.
“The continued growth at rates of 3.6 per cent needs to be challenged, as this means the population doubles every 18-20 years.”
Mr Christesen said along with population growth there is developmental growth which will have a considerable effect on flora and fauna.
“We are seeing development is the single largest cause of loss of biodiversity and this is particularly true for areas such as Caloundra and Noosa.
“Additionally, there is the cumulative impact of continuing development in floodplains which will be exacerbated due to more severe flooding and storm surge events brought about through climate change,” Mr Christesen said.
Mr Christesen said council and State Government needed to adopt planning measures that incorporated environmental values and supported sustainable infrastructure and transport.
“There has been a lack of true planning. The council and State Government need to sit down and get it right.”
Mr Christesen remained optimistic the council would be more proactive with Ms Jones overseeing the environment portfolio.
“Cr Jones has a good handling of the environment and she would be the champion for this position,” he said.
“This does depend on planning and taking a holistic approach, with the support of councillors and Mayor Bob Abbott.”
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